To note Sir Michael Lyons' latest report and the areas of particular interest to Herefordshire where representations to the Lyons Inquiry may be appropriate.

THAT

(a)               Cabinet notes the latest work of the Lyons Inquiry and decide which, if any, issues it wishes to contribute to in future; and

(b)               An assessment of the impact of the inquiry and action plan be prepared for submission, and work via Herefordshire Council membership of various bodies to lobby on behalf of rural authorities.

Sir Michael Lyons final report (due in December 2006) is widely seen as being hugely influential for the future shape, financing and functions of Local Government.  There is an opportunity for the authority to provide some comments by responding to the interim report in advance of the Government White Paper and the final report of the Lyons Inquiry.

To ignore Sir Michael’s work and not make Herefordshire’s views know on issues of importance locally.